President Lech Kaczynski stood proudly and defiantly for democracy and human rights through even the most difficult times.

Although not universally supported, he will be remembered as a strong statesman who relentlessly stood for the values that he believed would make Poland a more prosperous and happier nation.

His sudden passing, and that of the wealth of cultural and talented leaders accompanying him, is a great loss for Polonia worldwide.

The fact that this accident would occur en route to commemorating one of the saddest events in Poland's history makes it laden with tragic irony. It is as if the Katyn forest itself is cursed as it becomes the graveyard for another impressive group of Polish civilian and political leaders and intellectuals.As our Mother Country mourns this great national tragedy, Mahoning Valley Polonia extend their heartfelt sympathies to the government and the people of Poland. Just as we share in your cultural celebrations and joy, we now share in your sorrow and grief.